$Signed a contract with the Cubs in June of 2018 that includes a $1.2 million signing bonus.

Snagged by Cubs with 77th pick

OFChicago Cubs A

Shoulder

June 4, 2018

The Cubs have selected Roederer (shoulder) with the 77th overall pick in the 2018 first-year player draft.

ANALYSISA slight-framed 6-foot, 175-pound prep center fielder from California, Roederer was not expected to come off the board this early in the draft. Despite his size, he has impressive bat speed that some evaluators think could lead to above-average power down the road. He is already an above-average runner, so it's easy to see why the Cubs were drawn to his tools (he has 20/20 upside if you squint), selecting him early enough to potentially buy him away from a commitment to UCLA. Roederer separated his right (non-throwing) shoulder, and missed the final month of the high school season, so it's unclear when he will be able to join an affiliate if he signs.

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2019 Fantasy Outlook

The Cubs have little to show for their 2016 and 2017 draft classes, but that narrative changed in a big way last year, as their first three picks -- all hitters -- appear to be legitimate prospects. Roederer, a lefty-hitting prep outfielder, was the last of those three picks, although his $1.2 million bonus was the second-largest the Cubs handed out. He showed power (.190 ISO) and speed (13-for-17 on SB attempts) in 161 PA in the AZL after signing. His 11.2 BB% and 23.0 K% are fine marks, given his tools. Roederer also showcased an impressive 23.5 LD% and 39.2 FB% -- rates that indicate he will do damage when he connects. His strikeouts bear watching, but so does his 51.0 Pull%, especially as a lefty. He was an above-average runner in high school, but his speed may tick down a half grade by the time he reaches the majors. Roederer's bat will have to carry him, particularly if he has to move off center field, which is a distinct possibility.